Aviation Accident Summaries

Aviation Accident Summary GAA18CA548

Carson, NV, USA

Aircraft #1

N289MM

Vans VANS RV 8

Analysis

The pilot of the tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that, during landing, the airplane was "slightly fast," touched down "firm" on the runway, and then bounced. He increased the engine power to cushion the subsequent landing, but the airplane touched down "left wing low" and pointed right. He then corrected with opposite rudder and brake, but the airplane veered right and exited the runway. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. The airport's automated weather observation station reported that, about the time of the accident, the wind was from 240° at 9 knots, gusting to 20 knots. The pilot landed the airplane on runway 09.

Factual Information

The pilot of the tailwheel equipped airplane reported that, during landing, the airplane was "slightly fast", touched down "firm" on the runway and bounced. He increased the engine power to cushion the subsequent landing, but the airplane touched down "left wing low" and pointed to the right. He then corrected with opposite rudder and brake, but airplane veered right, and exited the runway to the right. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. The automated weather observation station located on the airport reported that, about the time of the accident, the wind was from 240° at 9 knots, gusting 20 knots. The airplane landed on runway 09.

Probable Cause and Findings

The pilot's improper landing flare, which resulted in a bounced landing, and his subsequent failure to maintain directional control in gusting, right quartering tailwind conditions.

 

Source: NTSB Aviation Accident Database

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